We don’t usually pat ourselves on the back, but, as it happens, 2014 marks the 10th anniversary of Jersey City Magazine. We’ve been privileged to cover a great town that has given us wonderful stories, stunning personalities, and gorgeous images that have kept readers entertained and engaged over the last decade.
During that time, we’ve reported on the traditional and cutting edge. In this issue, for example, Lauren Barbagallo profiles two arts venues that celebrate the new and the newly established. The stunning Mana Contemporary is a world-class organization that has chosen Jersey City for its home. White Eagle Hall, meanwhile, is a classic example of how we are converting existing real estate into venues that accommodate our modern needs—in this case a space for performance, the visual arts, and dining.
Education has always been a crucial factor in Jersey City’s evolution. Young families are pouring into the city, and we want them to stay, which means educating their kids. In this issue, writer Merlin Ural Rivera takes a look at how charter schools are doing just that.
With each new development or trend, we also try to hold on to the touchstones that have made Jersey City unique. That’s why we instituted “Vanishing Jersey City,” and we hope you will continue sending us your wonderful images of things that are fast slipping away from us.
But no city is an island, and we certainly don’t want to be. Over the years, our content has mirrored what is happening in the country and the world at large. We’ve focused on development, diversity, the food craze, entrepreneurship, the arts scene, and any number of other trends that put us front and center in the global village.
Our 10th-anniversary issue is no exception. The national movement for marriage equality has made its way to New Jersey, and we were thrilled to interview one of two lesbian couples who were the first to be married in Jersey City by our new young mayor.
Speaking of which, you probably noticed him on our cover. Though writer Caren Lissner talked to him in the middle of the Bridgegate scandal, this story is not about politics. We get up close and personal with Mayor Fulop, learning about his taste in music, how he spends his down time, and he how he keeps in shape.
Our photographers, Terri Saulino Bish and Alyssa Bredin, caught up with him at the gym at five in the morning. I was there, too, and had a chance between the treadmill and the weight training for a little chat. He was relaxed, approachable, fun, and very curious about our jobs and the whole business of making magazines.
Which brings us full circle.
We’ve been making this magazine for 10 years with the unwavering support of our local businesses and loyal readers.
Here’s to 10 more.—JCM
Correction
The photo on page 23 of the Fall/Winter 2013/2014 issue of Jersey City Magazine depicts a kitchen designed by Anthony Carrino and John Colaneri. It is not the kitchen in Lindsey Lohmeier’s and Matt Brown’s home. We regret the error.